Are you looking for a trekking adventure in the Himalayas that is also spiritual? Well, if you have that in mind, then visits to Amarnath and Kedarnat
Are you looking for a trekking adventure in the Himalayas that is also spiritual? Well, if you have that in mind, then visits to Amarnath and Kedarnath are your top choices. But if to pick one, which one should you really choose? In this article, we’ll compare these two journeys, giving you a clear idea what to choose and when!
Difference Between Amarnath And Kedarnath
In this article, we’ll discuss the difference between the Kedarnath and Amarnath temples. Let’s begin, shall we?
Amarnath
This revered high-altitude Hindu pilgrimage site is best known for its naturally forming ice Shivling inside the Amarnath Cave. The ice stalagmite is believed to represent Lord Shiva himself. The Yatra offers the devotees breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscapes and forested mountains.
Kedarnath
This sacred Dham is one of the most sacred sites of Lord Shiva. Believed to be built by Pandavas, this site is also a Jyotirlinga and one of the Panch Kedars. Located in the Garhwal region of Himalayas, the place offers stunning views of the snow-clad peaks and lush valleys.
Difference Between Amarnath Trek and Kedarnath Trek
The Amarnath journey, spanning around 46 kilometres from Pahalgam (and 14 kilometers from Baltal), presents a gruelling passage for the tourists. This trip to the sacred Cave involves rugged terrain, steep ascents, and unpredictable rainfall during the July-August Yatra. Pilgrims have to navigate through rocky paths and brave shifting conditions and even occasional snowfall. The journey undoubtedly demands physical stamina and preparedness.
The glorified Kedarnath journey, on the other hand, ranges roughly 16 kilometres from Gaurikund. Nestled in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag quarter, this trip to the sacred Temple involves steep inclines, rocky paths, and a high mound. Pilgrims have to go through arduous terrain, enduring harsh routes with chances of random rainfall from May to October.
Amarnath And Kedarnath’s Height
The Amarnath Cave stands gloriously at an altitude of about 3,888 metres (12,756 feet) above sea level, nestled within the Himalayas in Jammu and Kashmir.
Meanwhile, the sacred Kedarnath Temple is perched at an elevation of roughly 3,583 metres (11,755 feet) above sea level, positioned in the Rudraprayag quarter of Uttarakhand. Both locales, elevated amidst the stirring mountain ranges, offer spiritual sanctuaries that attract pilgrims and addicts seeking godly blessings in the serene heights of the Himalayas.
Best Time To Visit Kedarnath And Amarnath
The best time to visit Kedarnath is from May to June and from September to October. These months offer favourable weather with moderate temperatures, making the journey more manageable and allowing for a smoother passage experience.
For Amarnath, the ideal time is during July and August. This period aligns with the Hindu month of Shravan. It’s essential to plan within this timeframe as the route is accessible, and the rainfall is fairly suitable, although conditions can be unpredictable with occasional snowfall.
Which Is Easiest To Reach Amarnath Vs Kedarnath?
Kedarnath is fairly more accessible than Amarnath.
Gaurikund serves as the base for the Kedarnath journey, and is easily accessible by road from major metropolises. The journey itself spans around 16 kilometres to the shrine.
In contrast, Amarnath involves a longer trip, either from Pahalgam covering roughly 46 kilometres, or from Baltal with a 14-kilometre journey.
Reaching both Amarnath and Kedarnath requires some amount of planning, but Kedarnath’s accessibility via road to Gaurikund simplifies the original part of the trip compared to the longer trip demanded by Amarnath.
Which Is Suitable For Old Citizens: Kedarnath Or Amarnath?
Kedarnath tends to be more suitable for aged citizens compared to Amarnath due to its shorter trek distance and fairly lower altitude.
The 16-kilometre journey from Gaurikund to Kedarnath Temple involves steep inclines and rocky paths, but it’s frequently more manageable for seniors compared to the longer and more demanding Amarnath journey.
Amarnath’s 40+ kilometre route includes long treks, cold temperatures, and slippery & narrow paths are potentially less suitable for elderly individuals who usually seek a more manageable passage experience.
Helicopter Yatra Available For Both Amarnath and Kedarnath
Both the Amarnath Yatra by Helicopter and the Kedarnath Yatra by Helicopter offer accessible alternatives for pilgrims. Heli services are available for both destinations, making for a swift and more accessible trip, especially for those unfit to take over the strenuous journey.
Amarnath Helicopter Yatra begins from Baltal or Pahalgam, while the Kedarnath Helicopter services start from Phata, Sersi, or Guptkashi. These copter services satisfy the requirements of the devotees, offering a smoother and faster way to traverse these sacred spots amidst the taxing terrain of the Himalayas.
FAQs
Q-1: Is Visiting Amarnath More Difficult than Kedarnath?
Ans: Yes, Amarnath Yatra is generally considered tougher than Kedarnath due to its longer touring distance, rugged terrain, and rainfall conditions along the route.
Q-2: What Is the Difference between Amarnath and Kedarnath?
Ans: Amarnath boasts a longer journey of about 46 km from Pahalgam or 14 km from Baltal, while Kedarnath involves only a 16 km journey from Gaurikund, presenting varying terrains and mounds.
Q-3: Which is Higher: Kedarnath or Amarnath?
Ans: Amarnath is positioned at a higher altitude than Kedarnath. The former is situated at around 3,888 metres (12,756 feet), while the latter is at roughly 3,583 meters (11,755 feet) above sea level.
Q-4: What Is the Distance from Amarnath to Kedarnath?
Ans: The distance between Amarnath and Kedarnath, the two sacred pilgrimage spots in the Himalayas, is roughly 800 kilometres.
Conclusion
Comparing the Amarnath and Kedarnath treks, Amarnath is generally considered more difficult due to its longer distance and rugged terrain. With Udan Aviation‘s heli services, both pilgrimages become easily accessible, offering relief to those seeking a smoother trip amidst the tricky Himalayan geographies.
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